Coupling system for attachment of a seat to allow securing and/or lifting thereof

ABSTRACT

A coupling device for a chair device, such as a wheelchair includes a bracket that is intended to be integrally incorporated in the chair device frame or secured to the frame of the wheelchair. The bracket has an attachment system formed by various elements thereof, which is intended for mating with a corresponding engagement device associated with a lift mechanism or a securing position. The attachment system is intended to mate with the corresponding engagement device to allow the wheelchair to be secured in position and then lifted to or lowered from an elevated position within a transportation vehicle or architectural setting while the wheelchair is occupied. The attachment system is additionally intended to universally mate to a corresponding engagement device for securing of a wheelchair in position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present invention claims priority from U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 60/318,911, entitled “Wheelchair Attachment System,” filed Sep.13, 2001; U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/293,663, entitled“Chair Lift System For A Mobility Vehicle,” filed May 25, 2001; U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/293,673, entitled “Wheel Chair LiftMechanism Into Mobility Vehicle,” filed May 25, 2001; U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 60/317,008, entitled “Personal Mobility Vehicle,”filed on Sep. 4, 2001; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.60/293,849, entitled “Assisted Entry Seating Structure For A MobilityVehicle,” filed May 25, 2001.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to a coupling system, includinga coupling device and an engagement device for mating attachment of aseating device to a securing or lifting device to allow the seatingdevice to be secured and/or lifted relative to transportation and/orarchitectural movement needs. More particularly, the present inventionrelates to a coupling device fixedly secured to, or integrally embodiedin, the frame of a wheelchair or other seating device to allow thewheelchair or seating device, while occupied, to be secured in positionand/or lifted or lowered in elevation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It has been a consistent challenge for wheelchair users, mobility deviceusers, and those that assist them, to secure their wheelchairs and/ormobility devices in a stable position in a moving vehicle, while theuser is seated therein. Current known systems utilize a strap or latchsystem that secures the wheel, axle, and/or frame of the wheelchairwithin a vehicle through the use of strap and tie down methods. Whilethese systems and methods are universal in their ability to accommodatea wide range of differing wheelchair designs, they are typicallycumbersome and time consuming for users and their assistance personnel.Moreover, these systems typically cannot be performed alone by a personconfined to or otherwise seated within a wheelchair or mobility deviceand therefore require the assistance of another person. This is becausea person seated in the wheelchair or mobility device typically cannotreach the strap and tie down systems.

Systems that clamp the wheels of a wheelchair for securing thereof havebeen developed. These systems are designed to engage the wheelsautomatically or upon activation. However, restraint of a wheelchair bythe wheels does not provide a satisfactorily rigid connection of thewheelchair seat or seating device to a transportation vehicle,particularly in the event of rough terrain or an accident. Further,these wheel clamp systems also take up considerable space within thetransportation vehicle. Therefore, it would be advantageous to provide auniversal system for coupling and effectuating elevation changes of aseating device and/or wheelchair that includes a simple rigid connectionfor securing the wheelchair and/or seating device in a stationaryposition. In the case of a public transportation bus, for instance, itis known that present developments for wheelchair clamping devicesaddressing the deficiencies of tie down systems take up a significantamount of space, thereby decreasing the effective area, where thepredominant use is not related to those of disability or limitedmobility. It would be desirable to provide a system that also overcomesthis disadvantage.

Moreover, it is also a known challenge for wheelchair users, mobilitydevice users, and those that assist them, to lift their wheelchairand/or other mobility device from the ground up into a vehicle or othermode of transportation, or to negotiate level changes within anarchitectural structure, such as a building. As is known, a large amountof effort and/or mechanical assistance is required to assist or lift aperson from ground level to a driving or riding position in a vehicle.This is true for a person that has some physical impairment that limitstheir ability to climb into a vehicle, such as for example, a personwith a walker or a cane. This is equally true for those that are notphysically able to climb into a vehicle, including those that require awheelchair. Moreover, significant effort and/or mechanical assistance isalso required to lift or lower a person of physical disability from oneelevation to another within any architectural building.

Most current systems that provide assistance in elevating a person in awheelchair or seating device to a driving or riding position, such as isrequired for entry into a vehicle, require that the wheelchair orseating device be positioned on a platform or similar structure, whichis then lifted with the person seated thereon, to raise them to thelevel of the vehicle. These platform type systems typically require alarge amount of space and are therefore costly and disadvantageous.Further, after the wheelchair or seating device has been lifted, thewheelchair or seating device must further be moved into position andthen secured within the vehicle. This typically requires that thewheelchair or seating device be latched in position through tying downof the wheel or the axle, as discussed above. Only after the wheelchairor seating device has been secured, can the vehicle be operated safelyfor the occupant of the wheelchair or seating device.

Several current lifting systems are available that can transfer a personfrom a position on ground into a vehicle. These lifting systems includea lifting seat that is an integral part of the lifting system. Thesesystems thus require the physical transfer of the person from theirwheelchair or seating device into the lifting chair. On ce the person islocated in the lifting seat, the seat is lifted and rotated by thelifting system to a secure position within the transportation mode.These systems also require the step of storing the now unused wheelchairor seating device in the vehicle by an aiding attendant before vehicleoperation, such that they can be used again by the person when unloadedfrom the lifting seat. This is thus not a system that can readily beused independently by the user.

It would therefore be advantageous to provide a coupling system thatwould place a lifting system in communication with a wheelchair andenable both the lifting and securing steps of the wheelchair to easilyallow persons that require the use of a wheelchair to enter and exit thevehicle as compared to current systems. In the case of an able, orlimited mobility person, it would also be advantageous to provide acoupling system for use with a seating element instead of a wheelchairthat secures and lifts the seating element. At present, there are noknown systems that can accommodate different seating configurations andthus allow for adaptation to a person's changing mobility capabilitiesor to the abilities of another user.

There presently exists no universal rapidly deployable rigid system foruse in securing and/or effectuating elevation changes of seating devicesor wheelchairs. It would therefore be desirable to provide a universalwheelchair coupling device that can be utilized with differentattachment devices and lifting structures employed by different vehiclesand/or architectural applications. Current universal lift platformdevices for rapidly deploying and lifting wheelchairs and/or otherseating devices require significant space and are not efficient for usein vehicles, boats, bus, and architectural settings where thepredominant use is not related to those of disability or limitedmobility. It would thus be desirable to provide a coupling device thatallows for universal attachment to more compact systems capable of usewith a wider variety of vehicles and also requiring less devoted space.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a couplingsystem that allows a wheelchair and/or other mobility seating device tobe readily lifted by a mechanical apparatus into a vehicle and retainedin a secure position within the vehicle.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a universalcoupling system that allows a wheelchair and/or other seating device tobe secured and lifted by a mechanical apparatus such that it remainssecured during the lifting operation with respect to a variety ofdifferent modes of transportation, including automobiles, buses, boats,stairs, personal mobility vehicles, and other similar devices andstructures.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a universalcoupling system that is intended to communicate with a lift mechanismsuch that its configuration takes up significantly less space than priorlift mechanisms.

It is a still another object of the present invention to provide acoupling system that includes a securing feature that allows awheelchair to be lifted from ground into a vehicle and secured withinthe vehicle without the need to secure the wheel of the wheelchair orthe frame secondarily.

It is still a further object of the present invention to provide acoupling system that can be utilized with various seating modules,devices and personal platforms, including wheelchairs and powerwheelchairs.

It is a related object of the present invention to provide a couplingsystem that allows for relatively efficient attachment of a wheelchairor other seating device to a lift mechanism as compared to priorattachment mechanisms.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a couplingsystem that readily facilitates unattachment of the mating engagementdevice incorporated in the coupling system as the wheelchair or seatingdevice is in the final stage of lowering such that the seating device orwheelchair can readily move away from the system or vehicle when loweredto exit height. In the case of unattachment of a seating module, theremoval of the seat module is effected easily for removal thereof andready accommodation of another seating module, device, or personalplatform, including wheelchairs and power wheelchairs.

It is still a further object of the present invention to provide acoupling system having an electrical signal coupling component thatallows the wheelchair user's controls to mate to the lift mechanism andthe vehicle controls for subsequent control of the lift mechanism andthe vehicle with the user's wheelchair controls.

In accordance with that above and the other objects of the presentinvention, a universal coupling system is provided. The universalcoupling system includes a coupling device that is intended to besecured to or formed integrally with the frame of a chair device, suchas a comfort chair unit or a wheelchair. The coupling device includes atleast one attachment structure formed thereon for mating with acorresponding engagement device formed on an associated lift mechanismor a location securing device utilizing the coupling system's universalattachment standards. In the case of utilization with a liftingmechanism, the coupling device is intended to mate the structure on thechair device with the corresponding engagement device on the liftmechanism and locationally secure the chair device in space for lifting.Thereafter, the chair device is raised to an elevated position while thechair device is occupied. The coupling system is configured such thatcomplete stability of the chair device relative to the lift mechanism ismaintained during the lifting operation. The coupling device preferablyincludes one or more aligning devices to facilitate tolerance of thecoupling process or chair device misalignment during the couplingprocess. It will be understood that the effective elements of thecoupling device, the engagement device, and the aligning devices may belocated either on the engagement device or the coupling device.

Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparentwhen viewed in light of the detailed description of the preferredembodiment when taken in conjunction with the attached drawings andappended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a coupling device incorporated into awheelchair, the design of which, could equally be used on other seatingdevices, to effectuate securing and lifting thereof in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a schematic side view partially broken away of a couplingsystem, including a coupling device that is mated to an engagementdevice on a lift mechanism, in accordance with a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 2B is a schematic illustration of a portion of a coupling system,which could be utilized instead of the corresponding portion locatedwithin the circle of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a coupling device incorporated into aseating device, which equally could be used on a wheelchair, inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an engagement device for a liftmechanism for communication with the coupling device of FIG. 3 inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the engagement device of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional top view of a portion of the engagementdevice of FIG. 4 along the lines A-A of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is perspective view of a modular vehicle having a lift mechanismdisposed therein employing an engagement device of a coupling system inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is perspective view of a lift mechanism employing an engagementdevice of a coupling system in accordance with a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a lift mechanism employing an engagementdevice of a coupling system having a tilt feature in accordance withanother preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of a lift mechanism lifting awheelchair or seating device from a ground engaging position to anintermediate elevated position in accordance with a preferred embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a lift mechanism moving awheelchair or seating device from an intermediate elevated position to afinal position within a mobility vehicle;

FIG. 12 is a front view of a lift mechanism employing an engagementdevice to be mated with a coupling device for securing a wheelchair orseating device within a mobility vehicle in accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a schematic side view of another embodiment of a liftmechanism which would employ an engagement device of a coupling systemfor moving a wheelchair or seating device from a ground engagingposition to a position with a mobility vehicle in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a liftmechanism which would employ an engagement device of a coupling systemfor moving a wheelchair or seating device from a ground engagingposition to a position within a mobility vehicle in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a schematic perspective view of a lift mechanism employing anengagement device of a coupling system for securing and lifting awheelchair, power wheelchair or seating device from a ground engagingposition to a position in a vehicle in accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a schematic side view of a lift mechanism employing anengagement device of a coupling system for securing and lifting awheelchair, power wheelchair or seating device from a ground engagingposition to an elevated position in accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a schematic front view of another embodiment of a liftmechanism employing an engagement device of a coupling system forsecuring and lifting a seating device from a ground engaging position toa position in a bus for example, in accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a schematic side view of the lift mechanism employing anengagement device of a coupling system for securing and lifting aseating device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 19 is a schematic illustration of a lift mechanism employing anengagement device of a coupling system for securing and lifting aseating device for architectural purposes in accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a schematic illustration of a lift mechanism employing anengagement device of a coupling system for securing and lifting aseating device for recreational and sport purposes in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 21 is a schematic illustration of a location securing mechanismemploying an engagement device of a coupling system for securing awheelchair or power wheelchair in a transportation vehicle such as abus, or restraining a wheelchair in an architectural setting such asmight be required in a mental health hospital in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring now to FIG. 1, which illustrates a preferred coupling device10, which is part of a coupling system 5 in accordance with the presentinvention. The coupling device 10 is preferably secured to the chairframe of a wheelchair 12. More preferably, the coupling device 10 issecured to the seat back 14 of the chair frame. It will be understoodthat the coupling device 10 may alternatively be secured to the seatbottom 18 of the chair frame. The coupling device 10 may be attached ona combination of the seat back 14 and the seat bottom 18 or a variety ofother locations on the wheelchair 12 or combination thereof. However,the coupling device 10 is attached to the wheelchair 12 independently ofthe wheels. In other words, the coupling device 10 is secured to thewheelchair 12, such that it effects a rigid connection and does notinterfere with any normal function of the wheelchair 12.

The coupling device 10 is preferably attached to the chair frame bywelding. However, the coupling device 10 may alternatively be attachedto the wheelchair 12 by any known attachment or securing mechanism.While the coupling device 10 is preferably secured to the wheelchair 12,it may alternatively be integrally formed with the wheelchair 12, suchas in the seat back structure 14 or the seat bottom structure 18 or acombination thereof. Moreover, while the coupling device 10 ispreferably shown and described for use with a wheelchair 12, it isintended, and will be understood that the coupling device 10 may besecured to, or integral with and utilized by a power wheelchair, amobility device or other seating structure.

The coupling device 10 is preferably comprised of an upper plate 20,which is secured to the seat back 14, and a lower plate 22, which isalso preferably secured to the seat back 14. The upper plate 20 and thelower plate 22 are preferably comprised of a metal material, however, itwill be understood that the plates 20, 22 may instead be formed of aplastic material, such as through known injection or compression moldingprocesses. Similarly, the plates 20, 22 and the chair may be formed in asingle process. Alternatively, the plates 20, 22 may be formed from avariety of other suitable materials. While the plates 20, 22 areillustrated as two separate pieces, it will be appreciated that they maybe formed as a single plate or more than two. Further, while the plates20, 22 are shown attached to the seat back 14, it will be understoodthat they can be attached, either entirely or partially, to otherportions of the wheelchair 12.

The upper plate 20 preferably has a plurality of through holes 24 whichallow attachment to secure various seat back cushions to the seat back14. The upper plate 20 also preferably includes a hook latch 26 that isintegrally formed with one or more load distributing structural elementsor shapes 28 that provide support integrity to the hook latch 26. Thehook latch 26 and the supporting elements 28 are each also integrallyformed with the upper plate 20. The upper plate 20 also preferablyincludes a channel 30 formed in either side of the upper plate 20 thatallows the upper plate 20 to be welded to each of the arm handles 32 ofthe wheelchair 12.

The lower plate 22 preferably also has a plurality of through holes 34,which allow attachment to secure various seat back cushions to the seatback 14 of the wheelchair 12. The lower plate 22 also includes at leastone guide pin 36, which protrudes generally outwardly therefrom, and aclamp bar 38. The lower plate 22 also includes an electrical signaland/or power connector component 40. The electrical power signal and/o rpower connector component 40 is in communication with the variouscontrols that are present on the wheelchair, seating device orpowerchair 12, as will be understood by one of skill in the art.

FIG. 2A illustrates the preferred coupling system 5, which embodies themating engagement of the coupling device 10 to an engagement device 50.As shown, the engagement device 50 is preferably secured to anassociated lift mechanism 52 and includes a latch 54, which is intendedto receive and lock the clamp bar 38 therein. The latch 54 secures theclamp bar 38 when in an engaged position to secure the wheelchair 12 tothe lift mechanism 52. The latch 54 thus locks the clamp bar 38 when thelift mechanism 52 is seated in a desired operating position within thevehicle 110. The latch 54 is in communication with a device 55 that willrelease the clamp bar 38 when the lift mechanism 52 is being activatedto allow movement of the attached chair in a path that is determined bythe lift mechanism, such as for lowering to a ground engaging positionfor ready uncoupling of the chair 12. It is understood that latch 54could be located on the engagement device 50, if engagement device 50 isprovided with full mechanical restraint of motion to effectuate securingof the wheelchair 12.

The engagement device 50 also preferably includes an electrical signaland/or power receptor device 56, which is intended to mate with theelectrical signal and/or power connector component 40, such that thecontrols used to operate the wheelchair 12 can be utilized by the userto operate the lift mechanism 52 and/or the vehicle into which thewheelchair 12 is being lifted. The engagement device 50 also includes asupporting rod 58, that is intended to engage the hook latch 26, and atleast one channel 60 that is intended to receive a respective guide pinor pins 36 therein, as is discussed in more detail below. The connectionof the wheelchair controls to the lift mechanism 52 can be accomplishedin a variety of other ways, including mechanical, electrical, infrared,or other known communication methods.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the electrical signal power connector device 56remains in the vehicle 110 and mates with the connector component 40when the wheelchair 12 is located in the vehicle. However, as shown inFIG. 2B, the electrical signal and/or power connector device 56, whichis shown as an infrared connector may also be located on the liftmechanism 52. Thus, the electrical signal and/or power connectorcomponent 40 may thus be located on the lift mechanism 52 or may remainfixed within the interior of the vehicle.

The mating of the coupling device 10 with the engagement device 50allows the wheelchair 12 to be secured to the lift mechanism 52 andmaintained in a secure position during the lifting process. The couplingsystem 5, through the features of the coupling device 10 and theengagement device 50, including the guide pin or pins 36 and the taperedpath of the hook latch 26 provide centering capability. It will beunderstood that a variety of other similar configurations foraccommodating coupling tolerance are possible for locating the couplingdevice 10 for proper engagement with the engagement device 50. Moreover,while the coupling device 10 has been illustrated on the wheel chair 12,it will be understood that the elements of the coupling device 10 mayinstead be located on the lift mechanism 52. In that event, it will alsobe understood that the elements of the engagement device 50 will belocated on the wheelchair 12 such that the functions of the couplingsystem 5 are maintained. Further, the specific configurations of thecoupling device 10 and the engagement device 50 may obviously vary.

The coupling device 10 is preferably universal in that while it has beenshown illustratively incorporated into a wheelchair, it may also beutilized with a variety of other seating devices, including powerwheelchairs, assistive seating devices, future wheelchair developmentsand/or seating modules. As will be understood, the engagement device 50preferably embodies a locking device that secures the coupling system 10after the centering features of the system 5 have mated the couplingdevice 10 to the engagement device 50 or after the lift mechanism 52 isin the vehicle operation position.

The configuration of the coupling device 10 allows it to be used in avariety of ways. For example, the engagement device 50 may bemanipulated by the lift mechanism 52 toward engagement with thewheelchair 12. Alternatively, the wheelchair 12 may be maneuvered intocontact with the engagement device 50. Moreover, the coupling device 10can be used for a variety of purposes, including for securing theseating device within a moving vehicle, or for attachment to the liftmechanism 52 for lifting or moving the seating device, or for attachmentto another lifting system, such as utilized in a hunter's tree standdevice.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 through 6, which illustrate another exemplaryembodiment of a coupling system 5, including a coupling device 10 and acorresponding engagement device 64. In this embodiment, the couplingdevice 62 is secured to or integral with the seat back 66 of a seatingdevice 68. The coupling device 62 preferably has an upper plate 70 and alower plate 72. Again the plat es 70, 72 can be found in various shapes,in a single or multiple pieces and can be formed of a variety ofmaterials, such as set forth above in connection with the plates 20, 22.

The upper plate 70 preferably has a plurality of through holes 74 whichallow attachment to secure various seat back cushions to the seat back14. The upper plate 70 includes a support bar 78 formed in a channel 80thereof. The channel 80 is defined by a pair of opposing flanges 82 thathave inner surfaces 84 that taper inwardly from the bottom towards thesupport bar 78 for the purposes of alignment in the coupling process.The flanges 82 are preferably integrally formed with the upper plate 70.The upper plate 70 is preferably attached to the seating device 68 bywelding, but can be attached by a variety of other ways. Alternatively,the upper plate 70 can be integrally formed with the seat back 66 or theseating device 68.

The lower plate 72 preferably has a plurality of through holes 86, whichallow attachment to secure various seat back cushions to the seat back14. The lower plate 72 also includes at least one guide pin 88protruding generally outwardly therefrom and a clamp bar 90. The lowerplate 72 also includes an electrical signal and/or power connectorcomponent 92, which is in communication with controls on the seatingdevice 68, as will be understood by one of skill in the art. The lowerplate 72 is also preferably attached to the seating device 68 bywelding. However, the lower plate 72 may be secured to the seatingdevice 68 in a variety of ways, including being integrally formed withthe seat back 66 or the seating device 68.

FIGS. 4 through 6 illustrate the corresponding engagement device 64 ofthe coupling system 5. The engagement device 64 as shown preferably isintegrally in association with a lift mechanism 52. It is alsounderstood that the engagement device 64 could be mechanically attachedto the lift mechanism 52. The engagement device 64 is preferablyconstructed of a metal material, such as steel, but a variety of othermaterials and composites may be used. A hook latch 98 is preferablyintegrally formed as part of the engagement device 64 to communicatewith the support bar 78 on the coupling device 10 to effectuate liftingof an attached seating structure. The engagement device 64 in this liftmechanism example is secured to a support shaft 100 at either endthereof. The support shaft 100 is preferably rotatable about its centralaxis and is controlled by the lift mechanism 52 to effectuatemaintaining the coupling system 5 and attached seating structure levelduring actuation of the lift mechanism 52.

It is understood that the engagement device 64 may be constructed byutilizing a combination of materials that are mechanically connected.The body portion 102 also includes at least one guide channel 104 thatis each intended to receive a respective guide pin 88 from the couplingdevice 62 therein. As shown in FIG. 6, the channel 104 is configured tomatch the shape of the guide pin 88. The function and uses of thecoupling device 62 and the engagement device 64 are the same asdescribed above in connection with the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2. Aswill be appreciated, the various components that make up the couplingsystem 5 can be located on either the coupling device 62 or theengagement device 64.

Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8, which illustrates use of an embodimentof the universal coupling system 5 within the context of an open frontmobility vehicle 110. The mobility vehicle 110 preferably incorporatesthe lift mechanism 52 therein, having the engagement device 64 locatedthereon for attachment to a coupling device 62. The lift mechanism 52includes a lift arm 114, an actuator 116, and a lift component 118utilizing the engagement device 64. The mobility vehicle 110 in thisillustration of use has an interior 120 and an open front 122. Here, theinterior 120 serves as a passenger compartment with a passenger enteringthe vehicle through the open front 122. An open front 122 is preferablyutilized as it allows the lift mechanism 52 to extend forwardly out theopen front 122 of the vehicle 110 to engage a seating device and retractit into the interior 120 without any interfering structure. However, thevehicle 110 could instead have an open back with the lift mechanism 52extending out of the vehicle rearwardly to engage a seating device andbring it into the vehicle interior 120. Further, the lift mechanism 52can also be configured to extend out the side of the vehicle 110. Theinterior 120 may alternatively serve as a storage compartment to houseitems lifted by the lift mechanism 52, which also could utilize thecoupling system 5 as a method of attachment of the storage compartment.

The lift arm 114 has a rear portion 124, a main arm portion 126extending generally forwardly from the rear portion 124, and a faceplate portion 128 that extends generally downwardly from the main liftarm portion 126. The lift arm 114 also includes a pair of opposing sideportions 130 and a top portion 132 that extends between the pair ofopposing side portions 130. The top portion 132 preferably does notextends over the face plate portion 128. The pair of opposing sideportions 130 and the top portion 132 define a hollow interior portion134 in the rear portion 124 and the main lift arm portion 126 of thelift arm 114. The rear portion 124 is preferably in mechanicalcommunication with the actuator 116. As shown, the actuator 116 ispreferably an electrical actuator. The actuator 116 preferably includesa pair of electric actuators 136, however, it will be understood thatthe actuator 116 could be comprised of only a single actuator. As willbe also understood, the actuator 116 may be driven by any other knownactuation means, including hydraulic actuation, pneumatic actuation orany combination thereof. As will be understood, the vehicle 110 can havean enclosure module or other structure covering the interior, such thatwhen in place, the movement of the lift arm is retarded. In accordancewith the preferred embodiment, actuation of the lift arm would alsopreferably move this structure out of the way to provide an unobstructedpath for the lift arm 114.

As shown best in FIG. 8, each of the pair of electric actuators 136 hasa first end 138 that is preferably secured within the vehicle 110 and asecond end 140 that is in communication with a respective lever arm 142.An axle 144 is fixedly secured to each of the lever arms 142 at arespective end thereof. The axle 144 passes through a respective bushing146, located adjacent each of the lever arms 142 to provide supporttherefor. The axle 144 is fixedly secured to each of the opposing sideportions 130 of the lift arm 114. Each of the bushings 146 is secured toa mounting plate 148, which is secured within the vehicle 110.

A pair of cam sprockets 152 are preferably secured to the mounting plate148 and are also preferably located within the hollow interior portion134. Each of the cam sprockets 152 has a plurality of teeth 154, whichare intended to engage a respective chain 156 as the lift arm 114travels forwardly and rearwardly through its range of motion. Each ofthe chains 156 has a rearward end 158 fixedly attached to one of thepair of cam sprockets 152 and a forward end 160, which is attached to arespective lift sprocket 162. Each of the lift sprockets 162 ispreferably located within the hollow interior portion 134 and controlsthe relative motion between the main lift arm portion 126 and the faceplate portion 128 of the lift mechanism 52.

As shown in FIG. 8, each of the cam sprockets 152 is fixedly secured tothe mounting plate 148 and is disposed at least partially around, butdoes not engage, the axle 144 which allows the axle 144 to rotate withrespect to the cam sprockets 152. The cam sprockets 152 govern therelative motion of the face plate portion 128 with respect to the mainlift arm portion 126 during the operation of the lift arm mechanism 52.While the coupling device 62 is mated to the engagement device 64, thelift sprockets 162 and the coupled chains 156 govern the relativeorientation of the face plate portion 128 to the main lift arm portion126 and maintain the coupled device 62 and the corresponding chairdevice in a stable horizontal orientation during the elevation process.It will be understood that while a pair of sprockets and two chainmechanisms are preferably utilized for purposes of safety andredundancy, the same functions can be achieved by a single sprocket andchain mechanism.

Referring now to FIG. 9, which illustrates another embodiment of a liftmechanism 52 in accordance with the present invention. The configurationof the electric actuators 136, the lever arms 142, the bushings 146, andthe lift arm 114 are the same as discussed above, and are therefore notre-described. As shown, the lift mechanism 52 in this embodimentincludes a pair of rotating cam sprockets 170, which are rotatablysecured to an assembly 172 which is rotatable with respect to the axle144. Each of the pair of rotating cam sprockets 170 has a plurality ofteeth 174, which are intended to engage a respective one of the chains176. Each of the chains 176 is attached at one end 178 to a respectiveone of the pair of rotating cam sprockets 170 and at the other end to arespective one of the lift sprockets 162. The assembly 172 has a leverportion 182 fixedly secured to an outer surface thereof. The leverportion 182 is in communication with a sprocket actuator 184. Theassembly 172 is secured at either end to the rotating cam sprockets 170and is disposed around the axle 144, such that the axle 144 supports theindependent pivoting of the assembly 172 thereon.

The sprocket actuator 184 is preferably an electric actuator, which issecured to the mounting plate 148 or directly to the vehicle structure110. However, again it will be understood that the sprocket actuator 184may be driven by any other known actuation means, including manualscrew, hydraulic actuation, pneumatic actuation or any combinationthereof. The sprocket actuator 184 pushes the lever portion 182, whichcauses the assembly 172 to rotate with respect to the axle 144. Themovement of the assembly 172 causes the rotating cam sprockets 170 torotate which pulls or releases the chain 176 and thereby turns the liftsprockets 162. The rotation of the lift sprockets 162 allows theinclination of the face plate portion 128 to be changed with respect tothe main lift arm portion 126. In other words, the angle of the liftplate 118 is varied to effectuate tilting of the coupled seating device,as is discussed in more detail below. This allows the coupled seatingdevice to recline for relaxation purposes and also allows the seatingdevice to tilt forward to allow a person of limited mobility to enter orexit the seating device more easily.

The face plate portion 128 preferably has a generally flat front surface118. As shown in FIG. 8, the front surface 118 of the face plate portion128 is part of the engagement device 64, which also preferably includesthe pair of channels 60 located on either side thereof. As discussedabove, the pair of channels 60 are intended to engage the guide pin orpins 36 of the coupling device 10. Additionally, the support rod 58extends between the pair of lift sprockets 162. The support rod 58 ispreferably “v” shaped such that a downward bend 188 is formed therein toprovide a structure for coupling with the hook latch 26 on the couplingsystem 10. The support rod 58 is secured to the face plate portion 128and to each of the lift sprockets 162. The support rod 58 also pivotallyengages a bearing block 190 on either end thereof to provide a rotationaxis for the supporting rod 56 and face plate portion 128.

The lift mechanism 52 also includes a control handle 192 which controlsthe actuation of the lift arm 114. The control handle 192 has at leastone button 194 thereon that is in electrical communication with theactuator 116 through the wires encased within the cord 196. It will beunderstood that the control handle 192 may contain a variety of otherbuttons, including a tilt button to control actuation of the sprocketactuator 184 and thus the movement of the face plate portion 128 withrespect to the main arm portion 126. Thus, any number of buttons may beutilized. It will be understood that the control button 192 or controlbuttons may be located in a multitude of locations that are advantageousto the design configuration for easy use. It is understood that in theevent that existing wheelchair controls are used in communication withlift mechanism 52 through an electrical signal and/or power connectorcomponent 40 and electrical signal and/or power receptor device 56, thatthe control handle 192 need not be utilized.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 through 12, which illustrate the movement ofthe lift arm 114 between a fully retracted position and a fully extendedposition. The lift arm 114 and the associated lift mechanism 52 areillustrated as incorporated into a mobility vehicle 110. However, asdiscussed in detail below, the lift arm 114 can be utilized for avariety of purposes and incorporated into a variety of differentsituations. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 through 12, the lift arm114 is intended to lift an individual seated on a wheelchair 12 from aposition on the ground to a position secured in the vehicle 110. Theengagement of the lift arm 114 with the wheelchair 12 is by mating ofthe engagement device 64 with the coupling device 10, which is describedin detail above. While the present invention is preferably intended forengagement with a wheelchair 12, it will be understood that the liftmechanism 52 can also engage a power wheelchair, a seating module, suchas illustrated in FIG. 3 or a variety of other seating devices, as willbe understood by one of skill in the art.

As shown in the application here illustrated, the lift arm 114 extendsfrom the interior 120 of the vehicle 110 forwardly through the openfront 122 to engage the wheelchair 12 or other seating device. In thefully extended position, the face plate portion 128 of the engagementdevice 64 mates with the coupling device 10 on the wheelchair 12. Inorder to effectuate engagement, the operator of the wheelchair can backthe wheelchair 12 rearwardly until the coupling device 10 engages theengagement device 64 and a mating engagement is achieved. Once thewheelchair 12 is contacting the face plate portion 128, the operatorcan, through the use of the control handle 192, activate the actuator116 causing the electric actuators 136 to retract, which causes the liftarm 114 to move rearwardly, thereby causing engaging of the couplingcomponents and lifting the wheelchair 12 and an occupant positionedtherein. Obviously, the same engagement and lifting procedure wouldapply to other seating devices, including a power wheelchair and aseating module, as well as to other storage or devices to be lifted.

As shown, the operator can stop the actuator 116 by releasing theappropriate button 194 on the control handle 192 to stop the movement ofthe wheelchair 12 at a variety of positions between the initial groundengaging position and the fully retracted position within the interior120 (FIG. 11). For example, as shown, the operator can stop the actuator116 to halt the movement of the lift arm 114 at an intermediary positiongenerally designated by 114′ such that the wheelchair is in the positiondesignated by reference number 12′. This allows an operator to utilizean elevated position while seated in the wheelchair 12 for a variety ofreasons. For instance, the operator can raise himself to a forward eyelevel position with another person for talking and/or observing outdoorevents. Additionally, the operator can change the angle of inclinationof the wheelchair 112 by actuating the sprocket actuator 184, asdiscussed above, in order to tilt the face plate portion 128 to reclinethe wheelchair 12 or seating module.

As the lift arm 114 raises the operator, the weight of the operatortensions the chains 176 that extend between the lift sprockets 162 andthe rotating cam sprockets 170. As shown in FIG. 9, an idler 200 is usedto hold each of the chains 176 within the confines of the bent armconfiguration of the lift arm 114 to maintain orientation of thewheelchair 12 when raised back into the vehicle 10. As shown in FIGS. 11and 12, the lift arm 114 moves the wheelchair 12 to a position at restwithin the interior 120 of the vehicle 110 designated by referencenumber 12″. In this position, the lift arm is in the position designatedby reference number 114″. The final position of the lift arm 114 in thefully retracted position in the mobility vehicle 110 with the couplingsystem 5 attached thereto, is shown in FIG. 10. Once in the vehicle 110,the coupling system 5 completes the securing of the wheelchair 12, bymeans of engaging latch 54. It is foreseen that other mechanical means,including telescoping boom arm, sliding lift rails and swing booms orany combination of such can be utilized in conjunction with the couplingsystem 5 to accomplish the lifting of the wheelchair 12 and itspositioning within the vehicle 110 as well as to secure the wheelchair12 in an operating position to drive the vehicle 110, as are describedin more detail below.

Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14, which illustrate another embodiment ofa lift mechanism 210 in accordance with the present invention. The liftmechanism 210 performs the same function as the lift mechanism 52. Thelift mechanism 210 is preferably a four bar linkage system including apair of upper bars 212 and a pair of lower bars 214. The pair of upperbars 212 are secured to the vehicle 110 at an inner end 216 and at anouter end 220 to a face plate 218. The pair of lower bars 214 aresecured to the vehicle 110 at an inner end 222 and at an outer end 224to the face plate 218. The face plate 218 has an engagement device 50located thereon. The inner ends 216 of the upper bars 212 has anextended lever 227 which is in communication with an actuator 226. Asdiscussed above, the actuator 226 effectuates raising and lowering ofthe lift mechanism 210 as well as the attached wheelchair or otherseating device. A rack and pinion like mechanism may also be utilized,as will be understood by one of skill in the art.

Referring now to FIGS. 15 and 16, which illustrates another embodimentof a lift mechanism 230 in accordance with the present invention. Thelift mechanism 230 is preferably incorporated into an mobility vehicle110, but as will be understood can be incorporated into a variety ofother transportation modes. The lift mechanism 230 includes a face plate232 upon which an engagement device 64 is preferably disposed. Theengagement device 64 is preferably intended to mate with a couplingdevice 62 attached to a wheelchair 12 or other seating device. The faceplate 232 is slideably or telescopically disposed on a lift arm 234, theactuation of which controls the lifting and covering of the face plate232 and thus the attached seating device. The lift arm 234 is also incommunication with a pair of rotary actuators 236 that are secured tothe structure of the vehicle 110 and when actuated, provide furtherlifting, lowering and extended location of the face plate 232 and thusthe attached seating device. In this embodiment, the wheelchair 12 orother device is backed into the open front 122 of the vehicle 110 andinto engagement with the engagement device 64. The wheelchair 12 orother device can then be lifted to a driving position within the vehiclethrough the use of the wheelchair controls or other controls, as will beunderstood by one of skill in the art.

Rotary actuators 236 can further be utilized for positioning thewheelchair 12 or other seating device forwardly and elevated forrequirements of the operator for reaching, transfer and visibilityneeds. The actuators 236, as will be understood, control the lifting ofthe lift arm 234. The lift arm 234 can be controlled to stop its motionanywhere between a ground engaging position and a fully elevatedposition. The face plate 232 is preferably rotatably secured to the liftarm 234, such that as the lift arm 234 is raised, the face plate 232 andthus the wheelchair 12 or other seating device tilt with respect to thelift arm 234 such that during lifting, the wheelchair or seating devicebottom remains parallel to the ground. Moreover, the lift arm 234 alsopreferably utilizes its telescopically or slideably disposed movement.In other words, the lift arm 234 has an outer stationary portion 238 andan inner reciprocal portion 240. Upon actuation, the inner reciprocalportion 240 slides outwardly with respect to the outer stationaryportion 238 to allow the wheelchair 12 or other seating device to befurther extended from the vehicle 110.

Referring now to FIGS. 17 and 18, which illustrate another embodiment ofa lift mechanism 242. In this embodiment, the lift mechanism 242 ispreferably for use in connection with public transportation, such as abus 244, to raise an occupied wheelchair 12 or other seating device froma ground engaging position to a position secured within the bus 244. Asshown, the lift mechanism 242 includes a lift arm 246, which is securedto the bus 244, such as to the bus floor 248, at an inner end 250. Thelift arm 250 is pivotable about its inner end 250, such that it canrotate about an axis 252.

The lift arm 246 has an outer end 254 which has a face plate 256 securedthereto. The face plate 256 preferably has an attachment device 64secured thereto which is intended to engage a coupling device 62, whichis secured to the wheelchair 12 or other seating device. The face plate256 is rotatably secured to the outer end 254 of the lift arm 246. Thus,as the lift arm 246 is lowered, the face plate 256 rotates about an axis257, such that the engagement device 64 is aligned to mate with thecoupling device 62. Moreover, the lift arm 246 may also have telescopiccapabilities allowing the arm to extend outwardly as desired. The liftarm 246 is preferably driven by an electric rotary actuator device 258which is in communication with an electric rotary actuator on the axis257, such that the face plate 256 rotatably maintains a horizontalorientation of the wheelchair 12 or seating device, while beingtranslated into or out of said vehicle.

As shown in FIG. 17, the lift mechanism 242 is operative to engage andsecure an occupied wheelchair 12 that is on a curb or sidewalk 260 andlift them to a position within the bus 244. The occupied wheelchair 12is then secured within the bus 244 by means of either remaining attachedto the lift system, or by uncoupling and moving to another securingposition in the vehicle. No modification of the wheelchair 12 isrequired to effectuate lifting. The reverse operation will result inlowering the wheelchair 12 from the bus 244 to a ground engagingposition. It will be understood that while the preferred lift arm is arotary arm, the lifting operation could be accomplished by a telescopinglift arm, a four bar linkage lift arm, or a slideable translation arm.Each of these alternative configurations will be understood by one ofskill in the art.

As will also be understood, prior to the rotation of the lift arm 246,at least a side portion 262 of the bus 244 will swing open to allow apath for the lift arm 246 to travel and an opening through which thewheelchair 12 or other seating device can enter and exit the vehicle.The opening of the side portion 262 can be controlled by the electricactuator 258 or can alternatively be controlled independently.

FIG. 19 illustrates another application for the preferred couplingsystem 5 in accordance with the present invention. Because the preferredcoupling system 5 is universal in nature and preferably becomes standardin dimension on all wheelchairs and power wheelchairs, it can beutilized for architectural applications, such as to negotiate elevationchanges in a building, which is typically a challenge for the physicallyhandicapped or for those that require assistance. As shown in FIG. 19,the coupling system 5 is utilized with a lift mechanism 270 to negotiatea flight of stairs, generally indicated by reference number 272.

The lift mechanism 270 is mounted on a rail system 274, which is securedto a wall or other structure. The lift mechanism 270 includes a faceplate 276 which has an engagement device 64 secured thereon. Theengagement device 64 is intended to mate with a coupling device 10 tosecure an attached wheelchair 12 or other seating device. The face plate276 is secured to a lift arm 278, which is in slideable communicationwith and rides on the rail system 274. Once the engagement device 64 ismated with the coupling device 10, an actuator 280 causes the lift arm278 to raise the wheelchair 12 to a height sufficient to engage thecoupling system 5 and clear the stairs. The rail system 274 with motordrive 285 engaging tooth rack 286 then, based on the operator'smanipulation of the lift mechanism's or of the wheelchair's controls incommunication with the lift mechanism controls, moves the lift mechanism270 and thus the wheelchair 12 up the rail system 274 to a landing 282at the top of the stairs 272. It is understood that other mechanisms oftranslation on the rail system 274 are possible such as manual assist,chain, cable, screw drive and actuator systems.

Once at the landing 282, the lift arm 278 rotatably pivots about an axis284, such that it is directionally pointed forward. This rotation 284can happen automatically once the lift mechanism 270 reaches the landing280 or other suitable actuation point. Alternatively, the rotation canoccur based on operator control. Once rotated, the operator can decouplefrom the lift arm 278 by lowering the actuator 280 and move away fromthe engagement device 64.

FIG. 20 illustrates another application for the preferred couplingsystem 5 in accordance with the present invention. The coupling system 5can also be utilized to raise and lower a wheelchair 12 or other seatingdevice from a ground engaging position to an elevated position forrecreational and sport purposes. For example, FIG. 20 illustrates thecoupling system 5 as used with a tree stand 300, such as for hunting,which engages the ground at its bottom 302 and is secured to a tree 304at another point by a securing mechanism 306. The tree stand 300 has anelevating mechanism 308 associated therewith. The elevating mechanism308 has a slideable plate 310 with the engagement device 64 securedthereto. The engagement device 64 is intended to mate with a couplingdevice 62 secured to a wheelchair 12 or other seating device. Once anoperator is secured safely in the wheelchair 12 or other seating deviceand the wheelchair 12 is coupled to the lift mechanism 308, the operatorthrough the wheelchair controls or other controls can activate the liftmechanism through the elevating mechanism 308 to elevate themselves. Thesame applies for lowering. It is understood that the elevating mechanism308 can utilize a variety of known methods such as a manual pulley orratchet system, power screw system, cable and winch system, telescopingactuation, rack and pinion system as well as others. The coupling system5 of the present invention thus has an almost unlimited number of uses.

FIG. 21 illustrates a securing system 320 for use in connection with thepreferred coupling system 5. As shown, the securing system 320 ispreferably attached to a pole 322 or other secure structure. The pole322 is preferably secured to or already existing on a publictransportation system, such as a bus, an elevated train, a non-elevatedtrain, a subway or other mode of transportation. In one embodiment, asimplified version of the engagement device 64 is secured to the pole322, but can move slightly up and down. The wheelchair 12 has couplingdevice 62, such as shown in FIG. 3, secured thereto. The up movement ofthe securing system 320 would preferably engage the upper support bar 78and the lower clamp bar 90 of coupling device 62. The pole 322 also hasa latch security and release device 324 mounted thereon for effectingengagement of the system and release of engagement.

In operation, once an operator has backed the wheelchair 12 up to thepole 322 such that the coupling device 62 is aligned with the engagementdevice 64, the operator pulls on the latch cord 326. The latch cord 326causes the engagement device 64 to move upward on the pole 322 and intoengagement with the coupling device 62 to secure the wheelchair 12thereto. Similarly, to unsecure the wheelchair 12, the operator pullsand releases the latch cord 326 and the engagement device 64 movesdownward to unhitch the wheelchair 12 thereby allowing the wheelchair 12to wheel away. It is understood that other latching methods are possiblewith utilization of universal dimensional standards of the support bar78 and the clamp bar 90 of the coupling device 62. It is furtherunderstood that a typical car door latch system could be utilized inconjunction with only one of these bars for effective securing ofwheelchair 12.

Advantages of the present system include the fact that the operator hasthe wheelchair 12 with him/her in the vehicle 110 or other device at alltimes and is seated therein without the need to transfer. Further, thewheelchair is also available for ready use upon deployment after reverseoperation of the lift arm by lowering and unsecuring. Additionally,another advantage is that the seat is secure independent of the rigidityof the wheelchair wheels. Moreover, the system provides complete powerentry and automatic latch securing by way of a simple mechanical systemand that actuation of the system for exit automatically opens thesecuring latch to release the coupling system 5 and the lift mechanismfor lowering. While not in the vehicle operating position, it is furtherforeseen as advantageous that the operator is capable of locatinghim/herself advantageously, with this mechanism, for effectively sittingforward outside the vehicle while still attached, raising operatorviewing position or reach position.

A primary advantage of the coupling device 10 on the wheelchair frame isthe secure latching of the wheelchair, power wheelchair, or seatingmodule to resist movement, in the case of attaching in a vehicle. Thisattachment further is useful for lifting mechanisms, as in the case oflifting the wheelchair, power wheelchair, or seating module and occupantsecurely into the vehicle or in elevating the wheelchair, powerwheelchair, or seating module, in a building environment. It is foreseenthat broad acceptance of the advantages of this system will lead to astandardization of the device system for all wheelchairs and powerwheelchairs for common use in future vehicle mode use and buildingelevation needs. For example, the present universal coupling system 5may be utilized to lift wheelchairs or other seating devices into buses,boats, agricultural equipment, up stairs and anywhere else thatelevation changes may be required, but are difficult for those needingassistance.

While a preferred embodiment of the present invention has been describedso as to enable one skilled in the art to practice the presentinvention, it is to be understood that variations and modifications maybe employed without departing from the purview and intent of the presentinvention, as defined in the following claims. Accordingly, thepreceding description is intended to be exemplary and should not be usedto limit the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention shouldbe determined only by reference to the following claims.

1. A coupling device for a chair device, comprising: at least one platesecured to the frame of the chair device; and an attachment systemformed on said at least one plate for mating with a correspondingengagement device formed on an associated lift mechanism; whereby saidattachment system is intended to mate with said corresponding engagementdevice to allow the entire chair device to be secured in position andthen lifted to or lowered from an elevated position while the chairdevice is occupied.
 2. The coupling device of claim 1, wherein the chairdevice is a wheelchair.
 3. The coupling device of claim 1, wherein thechair device is a power wheelchair.
 4. The coupling device of claim 3,further comprising: an electrical signal and/or power connector that isintended to matingly engage an electrical signal and/or power receptordevice associated with said lift mechanism such that at least onecontrol associated with said power wheelchair can control at least onerelated device associated with said lift mechanism.
 5. The couplingdevice of claim 1, wherein the seating device is a seat module.
 6. Thecoupling device of claim 1, wherein said at least one plate is intendedto be secured to a seat structure of the chair device.
 7. The coup lingdevice of claim 6, wherein said at least one plate is intended to besecured to a seat back of the chair device.
 8. The coupling device ofclaim 6, wherein said at least one plate is intended to be secured to aseat bottom of the chair device.
 9. The coupling device of claim 6,wherein said at least one plate is integrally formed with said seatstructure of the chair device.
 10. The coupling device of claim 1,wherein said attachment system includes a downwardly facing engagementthat allows for receipt of an engaging connection therein with theengagement device.
 11. The coupling device of claim 10, wherein saidattachment system further includes at least one rearwardly extendingguide post and/or support surface that is intended to engage at leastone recess in said engagement device to center the seating device withrespect to said engagement device and provide locational stability ofsaid chair device relative to said lift mechanism.
 12. The couplingdevice of claim 1, wherein said attachment system includes a rearwardlyextending portion for communicating with said engagement device to allowfor elevation of the chair device or for securing the chair device in afixed position.
 13. The coupling device of claim 12, wherein saidrearwardly extending portion includes at least one generally horizontalbar for engaging a hook portion of said engagement device.
 14. Thecoupling device of claim 13, wherein said coupling device embodies athree point positional securing mechanism for support and totalstability of the chair device relative to said engagement device.
 15. Asystem for coupling a seating device, having a frame portion and aplurality of wheels to a driven vehicle, comprising: a coupling devicein communication with the frame of the seating device; a lift mechanismassociated with a driven vehicle, said lift mechanism having anengagement device intended to mate with said coupling device toeffectuate securing of said coupling device to said lift mechanism toallow lifting of the seating device from ground into the driven vehicle,while the seating device is occupied.
 16. The system of claim 15,wherein the seating device is a wheelchair.
 17. The system of claim 15,wherein the seating device is a power wheelchair.
 18. The system ofclaim 15, wherein said coupling device is secured to a seat backstructure of the seating device.
 19. The system of claim 15, whereinsaid coupling device is secured to a seat bottom structure of theseating device.
 20. The system of claim 15, wherein said coupling deviceis integrally formed with the frame portion of the seating device. 21.The system of claim 15, wherein the driven vehicle is an automobilehaving said lift mechanism incorporated therein.
 22. The system of claim15, wherein the driven vehicle is a public transportation vehicle havingsaid lift mechanism incorporated therein.
 23. The system of claim 22,wherein said public transportation vehicle is a bus.
 24. The system ofclaim 15, wherein the driven vehicle is a boat.
 25. The system of claim15 wherein the driven vehicle is one of a utility vehicle, a maintenancevehicle, a construction vehicle, or a heavy equipment vehicle.
 26. Thesystem of claim 15, wherein the driven vehicle is a personal mobilityvehicle having said lift mechanism incorporated therein.
 27. The systemof claim 15, wherein said coupling device includes a rearwardlyextending portion for communication with said engagement device on saidlift mechanism.
 28. The system of claim 27, wherein said rearwardlyextending portion includes at least one horizontal bar that communicateswith at least one engaging structure on said engagement device.
 29. Thesystem of claim 28, wherein said at least one engaging structure acts asa securing device for the seating device.
 30. The system of claim 27,wherein said rearwardly extending portion includes a plurality ofhorizontal bars that communicate with an engagement device on said liftmechanism.
 31. The system of claim 28, wherein said at least oneengaging structure is a hook-like structure.
 32. The system of claim 28,wherein said at least one engaging structure is a latch device.
 33. Thesystem of claim 15, wherein said coupling device includes a downwardlyfacing hook for communicating with at least one lift device on saidengagement device.
 34. The system of claim 33, wherein said couplingdevice further includes at least one rearwardly extending structure thatis intended to fit into corresponding recess formed on said engagementdevice to align the seating device with respect to said lift mechanism,said at least one extending device providing positional stability to theattached seating module.
 35. The system of claim 33, wherein saidcoupling device further includes an electrical signal and/or powerconnector for mating with an associated electrical signal and/or powerreceptor device on said engagement device of said lift mechanism and/orvehicle system such that electrical controls on the seating modulecommunicate with and control related devices and operation of said liftmechanism.
 36. The system of claim 35, wherein said electrical controlsalso control the operation of the driven vehicle.
 37. A coupling systemfor locating and securing a chair device, comprising: a coupling device;an engagement device for mating with said coupling device; said couplingdevice having structure that helps locate said coupling device withrespect to said engagement device to effectuate mating thereof; wherebyone of said coupling device or said engagement device is secured tochair device about a frame thereof and not to a wheel thereof.
 38. Thecoupling system of claim 37, wherein said engagement device is attachedto a fixed structure to serve as a fixed securing device.
 39. Thecoupling system of claim 38, wherein said fixed structure is located ina bus.
 40. The coupling system of claim 37, further comprising: anelectrical signal and/or power connector that is intended to matinglyengage an electrical signal and/or power receptor device associated withsaid fixed securing device such that at least one control associatedwith the chair device can control at least one related device associatedwith said fixed securing device.
 41. A universal coupling device toallow secure engagement and communication between a seating device and alift mechanism, comprising: a first side for attachment to a frame ofthe seating device; and a second side having a corresponding engagementattachment system extending therefrom allowing communication of theseating device with the lifting mechanism to provide the seating devicewith elevation capability and/or positional securing capability.